I Ching (comics)

WW180

I Ching is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. First appearing in Wonder Woman #179 (November-December 1968), I Ching was created by writer Denny O'Neil and artist Mike Sekowsky. He is depicted as a blind martial arts master and healer, who becomes a mentor and ally to Diana Prince (the alter ego of Wonder Woman) during a period when she had voluntarily given up her superpowers.

Publication History

I Ching's debut in the late 1960s coincided with a significant shift in the portrayal of Wonder Woman, reflecting the changing social norms and feminist movements of the time. Under the direction of O'Neil and Sekowsky, the series took a turn towards stories with a more grounded, realistic tone, moving away from the character's traditional mythological roots. I Ching was introduced as a guide to help Diana navigate this new phase of her life, teaching her martial arts and imparting wisdom from his vast knowledge of Eastern philosophies.

Fictional Character Biography

I Ching is a wise and skilled martial artist from an unspecified Asian country. He meets Diana Prince after she rescinds her Wonder Woman title and powers to remain in "Man's World" to look after Steve Trevor (who at the time was believed to be dead). Recognizing her potential and the spirit of a warrior within her, I Ching trains Diana in martial arts and espionage. Together, they embark on numerous adventures, battling against various threats without the aid of her traditional superpowers.

Throughout his appearances, I Ching's background remains largely mysterious. He is often portrayed as having deep knowledge of ancient cultures, mysticism, and healing techniques. His blindness is depicted not as a disability but as a source of strength, allowing him to perceive the world in a way that those with sight cannot.

Powers and Abilities

I Ching possesses no superhuman powers but is a master of martial arts and an expert in hand-to-hand combat. His training methods emphasize mental discipline and physical conditioning, enabling him to fight on par with highly skilled opponents. Additionally, I Ching is shown to have profound knowledge of healing techniques and Eastern philosophies, which he uses to guide and mentor Diana Prince.

Legacy

I Ching's role in the Wonder Woman series was part of a broader trend in comics of the late 1960s and early 1970s, where traditional superhero narratives were expanded to include elements of espionage, martial arts, and a focus on more human, relatable characters. His influence on Diana Prince during this era was significant, helping to redefine her character for a new generation of readers.

Despite the controversial nature of this period in Wonder Woman's history, I Ching remains an important figure in the character's lore. His teachings and philosophy left a lasting impact on Diana, shaping her approach to combat and her understanding of the world.

In Other Media

I Ching has yet to make a significant appearance in other media adaptations of Wonder Woman, including films, television series, and video games. His presence remains largely confined to the comic book series.